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Queen's purses for pensioners

Queen's Maundy recipients 'honoured'

Queen Elizabeth II today in Oxford Credit: PA

The recipients of the Queen's Maundy money were retired pensioners recommended by clergy and ministers of all denominations, in recognition of service to the Church and the community in the diocese of Oxford.

Barbara Muldowney, 85, from Wokingham, Berkshire, has been a stalwart member of St Bartholomew's church in the nearby village of Arborfield.

She said: "I was nominated for a number of things, particularly 40 years' teaching, also for membership of Arborfield's church for 50 years and working amongst the young people.

"I'm tremendously honoured by it, I think it's a tremendous privilege - I feel very inadequate."

Geoffrey Moss, 74, from Ascot, Berkshire, attends All Saints church in the town and has worked tirelessly helping local pensioners.

He said: "I was nominated for my general service to elderly people in my community.

"I help with Talking Newspapers, I'm a trustee for Age Concern and for the last 16 years I've helped my wife who runs a drop-in centre for the elderly in Ascot."

The Maundy Service, which dates back to the 13th century, has Biblical origins and echoes the story of Christ washing the feet of his disciples shortly before his death.

Initially the sovereign gave money to the poor - and washed recipients' feet. Foot-washing ended with James II in the 18th century.

Mr Moss added: "This goes way back to the origins of Christianity with Jesus washing feet so it's an incredible experience."